Fire Capt. Paul Miller, Engine 286, was honored by the New York Daily News on March 26 when he was named Hero of the Month for rescuing a 77-year-old man from a Queens fire in January.

“Paul will be the first to say, ‘I’m not a hero,’” Fire Commissioner Salvatore Cassano said. “But he – and all the firefighters that took part in the rescue – represents what’s good about our Department.”

The 16-year FDNY veteran entered the fire apartment, even as members outside reported frozen hydrants. He crawled past the fire, which was located in the bedroom and spreading to the living room, where he found the unconscious man.

He dragged him past the fire and out of the apartment.

The victim was taken to New York Hospital, where he is recovering from burns and smoke inhalation.

Capt. Paul Miller with members from his firehouse.

“This is one of the perks of my job – honoring simple bravery,” said Colin Myler, Editor of the New York Daily News. “What Paul did saved this man’s life.”

Dozens of firefighters attended the ceremony as well as Capt. Miller’s family.

“I was shocked to receive this,” Capt. Miller said. Then, turning his attention to the firefighters, he added, “You are the best company in the job.”

Describing his mother, who is a two-time cancer survivor, and his father, who served in the Vietnam War, he said, “I am humbled by words like bravery being used to describe me here, because I know people out there who have gone through and done so much more than me. They are my heroes.”